Jeff Bray is CEO of the Downtown Victoria Business Association
VICTORIA – October is Small Business Month. It’s a good time to check in on the many businesses we rely on every day to provide essential goods and services, create jobs and support our communities.
This year, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Victoria Business Association encourage everyone to say hello and thank their local business owners and staff the next time you see them. Small gestures of support mean a lot, especially for business owners working hard to navigate our complicated economic environment.
“Greater Victoria’s support for small businesses over the pandemic was powerful. It truly energized the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in our region,” Chamber CEO Bruce Williams said, noting that more than 90 per cent of Chamber members are small businesses. “So many businesses were able to make it through the last few years because of the support of our community. It really reinforces our mission of ‘working together to build good business and great community for all.’”
Small businesses employ more than half of all British Columbians. And the dollars that go to local businesses recirculate in the community about 4.6 times more than the same money spent at corporations that have head offices far away or even in other countries. The types of small businesses also represent every sector of the economy, from professionals and tradespeople who aren’t always top of mind to the highly visible retailers and restaurateurs who we interact with every day.
“Victoria’s small businesses are a cornerstone of our healthy, dynamic community. At a time when consumers are bombarded with online choices, shopping local is more important than ever,” said Victoria Mayor Marianne Alto. “Supporting small businesses is an investment in the people, the character and the sense of community that make Victoria an incredible place to live and visit.”
Throughout October, the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce is celebrating Small Business Month, sponsored by Grant Thornton LLP. Visit victoriachamber.ca/small-business-month for resources and information on events designed to help small businesses thrive.
“Small businesses are the heartbeat of Victoria’s economy, driving innovation, fostering local communities, and providing opportunities for growth,” said Kyman Chan, Partner, Assurance and Business Advisory, Grant Thornton LLP. “Supporting the small business community is not just an investment in economic prosperity, but a commitment to preserving the unique character and vitality of our region.”
Over the month, the DVBA will be releasing short videos on their social media pages featuring a different small business every day. Check out the videos by following @downtownvictoriabc on Instagram, or @DowntownVictoria on Facebook.
“More than ever, we understand the value and importance of our small businesses,” DVBA CEO Jeff Bray said. “They are the heart and soul of our communities, as well as being a key economic driver for our city and province.”
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